Dec 10, 2024 | Entertainment
Chaser Eight wins the $5,000 grand prize and will headline a
2025 Wolf Den show
UNCASVILLE, CT (December 9, 2024) – Chaser Eight was crowned 2024 Locals Live Champions after the finals on Wednesday, December 4th at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den. As part of the grand prize, the spirited four-piece band won $5,000 and will headline a future show in the Wolf Den. Norwich CT singer and songwriter JusBu took second place and received a $1,000 cash prize.
Chaser Eight, JusBu, and third-place solo act Austin Neal were named finalists after an exciting four-week contest hosted by Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications. Twelve bands were originally selected to perform live in the Wolf Den and competed in groups throughout November. Chaser Eight, JUSBU, and Austin Neil advanced to the finals after winning their respective first-round battles.
There was a boisterous turnout for the finals on Wednesday night. People were encouraged to dance to their favorite bands to receive points for crowd participation. Based on the audience’s response, stage appearance, musical presentation, and creativity, the panel of judges made their ultimate judgment.
“The Locals Live experience was amazing; every part of the night was magical,” said Audra Tagliamonte, lead singer and guitarist of Chaser Eight. “The Wolf Den environment is unlike any other. The entire staff and crew are so attentive to your needs on and off stage. There is so much energy in Casino of the Earth, and we can’t wait for our next performance.”.
For the past decade, Connecticut-based Alternative Rock Pop band Chaser Eight have been evolving. During this evolution, they’ve twice been voted New England’s Best Alt-Rock band in The Deli magazine’s year-end poll and were nominated in 2024 for New England Music Awards Rock Act of the Year. They opened for the likes of Panic! At the Disco, Buckcherry, and Badfish. The group consists of founding member AUDRA (vocals/guitar) and is rounded out by Brennan DiLernia (bass), Chris Siena (drums), and Mike Cocco (guitar). The band has released six EPs, two LPs and various singles, with more information available via chasereight.com.
The panel of guest judges at the Locals Live finals were Jay Thomas of Jay Promotions, Matt Chirski from “Darik and The Funbags,” and the members of Unwoke, who are the Locals Live 2023 champions.
A gallery of Chaser Eight’s winning performance can be found here. Stay tuned to our website for more information on Chaser Eight’s Wolf Den show.
ABOUT THE WOLF DEN
Located in the center of the action, in Casino of the Earth, the always popular Wolf Den offers full beverage service, a state-of-the-art sound system, intimate seating and top performances by entertainers like Ludacris, The Marshall Tucker Band, Warrant, Sister Hazel, Chubby Checker, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Queensrÿche and Run-DMC – and it’s all free!
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
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Dec 2, 2024 | Entertainment
Talented local bands will jostle for a $5,000 Grand Prize and Headlining Concert at the legendary Wolf Den
UNCASVILLE, CT (December 2, 2024) – The champions of the first three rounds of Mohegan Sun’s popular Locals Live competition will square off for musical supremacy on Wednesday, December 4th beginning at 8:00pm. Hosted by Mohegan Sun and sponsored by Hall Communications, Locals Live showcases some of the best bands throughout the region and is free to attend.
With a $5,000 grand prize and a headline performance at the Wolf Den on the line, the three acts that will be competing Wednesday include Alternative-Rock-Pop band, Chaser Eight, Norwich based Hip-Hop artist JusBu, and Country-Rock performer Austin Neal. These impressive acts will compete in the finals on the same stage that has hosted legends like Run DMC, Thomas Rhett, LL Cool J and Gary Hoey.
The winner of the last year’s Locals Live competition, the three-piece Rock band Unwoke from Montville, CT, will also play a special opening set at this finals event. From there, Unwoke will join Jay Thomas of Jay Promotions, and Matt Chirski from “Darik and The Funbags” as guest judges in helping to decide on the Locals Live 2024 champion.
Locals Live Final Round Lineup:
Chaser Eight
For the past decade, Connecticut-based Alternative Rock Pop band Chaser Eight have been evolving. During this evolution they’ve twice been voted New England’s Best Alt-Rock band in The Deli magazine’s year-end poll and were nominated in 2024 for New England Music Awards Rock Act of the Year. They opened for the likes of Panic! At the Disco, Buckcherry, and Badfish. The group consists of founding member AUDRA (vocals/guitar) and is rounded out by Brennan DiLernia (bass), Chris Siena (drums, and Mike Cocco (guitar). The band has released six EPs, two LPs and various singles, with more information available via chasereight.com.
JusBu
JusBu is as local as they come! The music aficionado was born and raised in Norwich, Connecticut. He brings his passion and desire for greatness to every track he raps over. The versatile singer and songwriter writes all his own lyrics and is looking for his opportunity to breakout onto the music scene in a major way.
Austin Neal
Austin Neal was born and raised in the southeast Missouri Ozark foothills. Neal started playing the guitar at six and grew up with a heavy musical influence from the Memphis music scene and bands like The Eagles, The Black Crowes, Jim Croce, Glenn Campbell, and others. A proud Navy veteran as well, Neal has opened for acts such as Shenandoah, Mark Chesnutt, Craig Campbell, Shooter Jennings, Neal McCoy, and Chris Hicks of the Marshall Tucker Band. He has been a local of Eastern Connecticut for the past few years and continues to rock crowds everywhere.
Admission to attend Locals Live is free, and all guests must be 21+ to enter the Wolf Den. Specials for drinks include Bud Light and Michelob Ultra for $4. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One guest can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. All guests must be 21 or older to enter the Wolf Den.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube.
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Dec 11, 2023 | Breaking News, Community Relations, General News
Unwoke, KENNII and The Rakes compete for a $5,000 grand prize and a headlining show at the Wolf Den
UNCASVILLE, CT (December 11, 2023) – The final round of the 2023 Locals Live competition, hosted Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications, is here, and the winners of the previous three Locals Live rounds will compete for more than just bragging rights! A $5,000 grand prize and a headlining show on the main stage in the renowned Wolf Den are on the line as a champion will be crowned on Wednesday, December 13th. Major entertainers such as Thomas Rhett, LL Cool J, Gary Hoey, and North Stonington native Nick Bosse, the winner of last year’s Locals Live competition, have rocked the Wolf Den stage at Mohegan Sun.
Guest judges Carl Strube of Critque Records, Simone Oliva, of “Tip the Van”, and Locals Live 2022 winner Nick Bosse will play a pivotal role in deciding the official Locals Live 2023 champion. Prior to the competition, guests can enjoy a special performance by Nick Bosse. Bosse and The Northern Roots will be back on the Wolf Den stage Friday, December 15th for a free show kicking off at 8:00pm.
Locals Live Final Round Lineup:
Unwoke
Unwoke is a three-piece Rock band based out of Montville, CT. The band formed in 2019, featuring Sean Higgins as the lead song writer, guitarist, and vocalist, and Dave Apanashk handling the bass and vocals. Joe Sardo is the man behind the drums.
Most would consider the trio a cross between Metal and Hard Rock. Some songs have a Metallica/Iron Maiden type of sound while others less Metal. The group specializes in Classic Rock covers for familiarity with their own original music mixed in.
KENNII
KENNII, also known as Kenny Araujo, is a 26-year-old R&B singer/songwriter from East Haven, CT. He started writing and singing in 2013 and has been chasing his dream ever since. KENNII was featured on NBC’s The Voice Season 5 where he auditioned for the four original judges. He unfortunately didn’t make it onto a team, but that didn’t stop him! KENNII went on to get a music manager out in New York City, leading to performances at the Miss Connecticut Pageant and News 8’s Good Morning Connecticut!
KENNI just released a single called “I Know” featuring Grammy nominated songwriter John Concepcion for his new album called “Infinity”, set to release on December 15, 2023.
The Rakes
The Rakes are a modern Country band that seamlessly weaves the tapestry of Country music’s rich history with a contemporary twist. Formed in 2015, this talented ensemble breathes new life into both classic and modern Country hits.
Hailing from Litchfield County, CT, The Rakes features Marc Poliquin on lead vocals, Frank Salerno on lead guitar, Chris Allan on rhythm guitar, Bob Sherman on bass, Scott Sullivan on drums, and Roberto Nicolia on keyboards. The Rakes cover a spectrum of Country legends, from the timeless tales of Johnny Cash to the iconic sounds of George Strait, and Brooks and Dunn. Their magic lies in reinventing hits from modern artists like Zach Bryan, Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, and many more. Each song is infused with a fresh perspective that resonates with fans across generations.
Admission to attend Locals Live is free, and all guests must be 21+ to enter the Wolf Den. Drink specials include $4 Michelob Ultras. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One guest can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. All guests must be 21 or older to enter the Wolf Den.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun
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Sep 25, 2023 | Breaking News, Community Relations, Entertainment
Grand prize winner of this special music competition will receive $5,000 and a headlining show at the Wolf Den
UNCASVILLE, CT (September 25, 2023) – Local bands and musicians will have the chance to turn dreams into reality during Locals Live! Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications will host another exciting four-week competition where local talent battle for a $5,000 grand prize. The Locals Live champion will also get the opportunity to headline their own show in the award-winning Wolf Den, where acts like Thomas Rhett, LL Cool J, Barenaked Ladies, and last year’s Locals Live winner Nick Bosse based out of North Stonington, CT have graced the stage. Submissions can be made from Monday, September 25th to Wednesday, October 25th through the WCTY website.
Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications will select nine bands/musicians plus two alternates, and three acts per week will compete live every Wednesday from November 15th – December 6th (excluding November 22nd) from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. A live vote from the crowd will determine who will advance on the path to the most epic musical showdown in town, the final competition, on Wednesday, December 13th. At the finals, guest and celebrity judges will play a pivotal role in deciding the official Locals Live champion.
Admission to attend Locals Live is free, and guests can enjoy $4 Michelob Ultra and Bud Light specials. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One guest can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. All guests must be 21 or older to enter the Wolf Den.
For the purposes of this competition, talent is defined as musicians, bands, or singer-songwriters only. All talent must be 21 years of age or older and from CT, RI, MA or NY. Performers must adhere to all Mohegan Sun rules and sign a guidelines contract prior to performance. Talent must be able to set up by 5:00pm on date of performance for sound check. All rules subject to change/management interpretation.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun
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Dec 13, 2022 | Entertainment, General News
Bosse wins $5,000 and will headline a future show at the Wolf Den
A panel of celebrity judges named Nick Bosse from North
Stonington, Connecticut, the Locals Live 2022 Champion after the finals on Wednesday, December 7th at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den. As part of the grand prize, Bosse won $5,000 and will headline a future show at the Wolf Den. Mad Mesa from Griswold, Connecticut, won $1,000 as runners-up.
Nick Bosse, Mad Mesa, and third-place band Hawkns from Milford, Connecticut, were named finalists after an exciting four week-contest hosted by Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications. Twelve bands were originally selected to perform live in the Wolf Den and competed in groups throughout November. Bosse, Mad Mesa, and Hawkns advanced to the Finals after winning their respective first-round battles.
The crowd was full and jovial on Wednesday night for the finals and guests were encouraged to dance to their favorite bands for crowd participation points. The final decision from the judges was based on musical presentation, stage presence, response from audience, and originality.
Bosse performed alongside his band The Northern Roots and had a large group of fans show up with signs and t-shirts who danced and kept the energy going throughout his set.
“I think every musician who participated in the 2022 Locals Live competition is eager for any opportunity to play at the Wolf Den because it is known as a professional venue within the music industry,” Bosse said. “We were there to showcase our love of Country music, share that passion with a live audience, and continue to promote/build the music community here in Connecticut. Winning was a great bonus and thrill for not only me and The Northern Roots, but especially for our followers THE BOSSE POSSE who have supported us for years. They 100% shared and continue to celebrate alongside us!”
Nick Bosse is an independent Nashville recording artist with 10 years in the music industry. His Country music vocals are backed by a power-house band of musicians from Connecticut and Rhode Island: The Northern Roots. Nick’s songwriting and music stylings are influenced by Country, Southern Rock, and Bluegrass legends, which he projects in every live performance. Since its release in January 2021, his popular single “What Happened to Country” has reached more than 1 million streams globally.
The panel of guest judges were Will Evans, songwriter and frontman for the New England-based Roots-Rock outfit Barefoot Truth; Derrick Williams, Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Mohegan Sun; Bryan Howard, a nationally acclaimed touring musician; and Cara Brindisi, a Season 22 contestant on The Voice. Evans and Brindisi gave their own performances ahead of the finals competition on Wednesday night. Brindisi will return to Mohegan Sun for The Snow Globe Tour at 8:00pm on Saturday, December 17th, at novelle. Tickets are on sale now.
View a full gallery of Nick Bosse at Locals Live here.
ABOUT THE WOLF DEN: Located in the center of the action, in Casino of the Earth, the always popular Wolf Den offers full beverage service, a state-of-the-art sound system, intimate seating and top performances by entertainers like Ludacris, The Marshall Tucker Band, Warrant, Sister Hazel, Chubby Checker, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Queensrÿche and Run-DMC – and it’s all free!
For more information on all things Mohegan Sun, call 1.888.226.7711 or visit mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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